Hey Westminster! Meet Victoria, intern
June 2026
Greetings! My name is Victoria Pearson, and I am a high school graduate and an intern with Hey Westminster. Although I’ve only been in this position for a few weeks, I’ve already learned a tremendous amount, not only about marketing and nonprofit work, but also about Westminster itself.
I am originally from Baltimore County, Maryland, and moved to Carroll County four years ago. The transition was a major change for me. From the agricultural landscape to the slower pace of town life, everything felt different from what I was used to. Moving from a lively suburban neighborhood to a smaller, more rural community unexpectedly expanded my worldview even further. However, once I discovered that the city of Westminster was only a 20 minutes drive from my new home, I adapted to the transition much easier.
Being introduced to the city of Westminster helped me to adapt while staying grounded in my own identity, sharing my background with others while also learning from theirs. I’ve met people from many different walks of life in Westminster, some with experiences similar to mine and others completely different, yet many shared the same feeling of acceptance and growth in the city.
Through my internship with Hey Westminster, I had the opportunity to speak with community members Leslie and Steve Vogel, who shared their own experiences and connections to Westminster. Steve and Leslie Vogel are former Baltimore residents, much like myself!
“When it came time to start our family, we found ourselves longing for something different. The quiet beauty of Carroll County drew us in, but over time we realized how much we missed having a strong sense of community. After moving to a neighborhood just over two miles from Main Street, we discovered the best of both worlds: the rolling hills and open spaces we had dreamed about, along with a vibrant, welcoming community. Westminster truly offers the perfect balance of small-town charm, natural beauty, and accessibility, and we’re grateful to call it home.”
What makes Westminster special to me is its balance. It is lively yet peaceful, agricultural yet accessible, close-knit yet diverse. As the heart of Carroll County, the city reflects the many qualities that make this community unique: sustainability, culture, creativity, and a genuine sense of support from people of all backgrounds.
One event that captures this spirit perfectly is the annual Flower and Jazz Festival, which Hey Westminster has proudly partnered with before. The event highlights the community’s appreciation for the arts, cultural diversity, and the natural beauty that makes Carroll County feel so welcoming. Each year, it brings people together through music, creativity, and connection. Whether through internships, volunteering, local events, or grant opportunities, Westminster continues to create spaces where people can grow and contribute.
If you’d like to learn more about upcoming events or ways to get involved, stay tuned here on the Hey Westminster website. If you’re interested in contributing to the amazing work happening throughout Westminster, consider applying for a Hey Westminster grant or reaching out via email to [email protected] to learn more about internship opportunities!
